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A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services

 

Music has always been at the heart of a British Christmas and London typifies this tuneful fascination. Charitable singers gather on street corners, church congregations swell and concert halls welcome world-class performers. Get inside some of the city’s finest venues, including historical landmarks like Westminster Abbey and the Royal Albert Hall, or simply gather around the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square and join the rest of London for a good old fashioned round of carols...

 
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A London Christmas 2007: Related Articles
 
Traditional London Christmas Map
Traditional London Christmas Guide (Printable Version)
 
Sugar & Spice | Hotel Hideaways | Food & Flower Markets | Traditional Toys | Ice Skating | Festive Fairs | Shows & Pantos | Christmas Lights | Tinsel & Trimmings | Christmas Day & Boxing Day | Carols & Services | New Year | Fish & Fowl | Greens, Cheese & Delis 
  

 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Cadogan Hall

5 Sloane Terrace, SW1X 9DQ
 
Tuesday 11th - Thursday 20th December 2007
 
Cadogan Hall is a good spot for a festive concert. The Byzantine-style former church has an appropriately Middle Eastern Christian feel, which combines with the always-impressive lights along King Street to give things a thoroughly seasonal feel. Here are some programme highlights and additional dates...
 
Christmas at Cadogan with Kit and the Widow

Wednesday 12th December 2007
"No carols. No mulled wine. No elves. Merry Christmas"
A refreshing alternative to the season's traditional formats and tunes, lounge act, Kit and the Widow, offers a wry, funny, at times caustic, cabaret take on Christmas. A smattering of tunes, some tinkling of the ivories, a sprinkling of jokes and camp banter make up this evening's, "Christmas with an edge" entertainment.
 
 
Christmas Cracker

Wednesday 19th December 2007
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Nick Davies, perform a populist programme full of seasonal favorites, including Humperdinck's 'Hansel & Gretel Overture', Tchaikovsky's 'The Skaters' Waltz', 'Mary's Boy Child' and 'Winter Wonderland'. Vocalists Mary Carewe and Michael Dore lead the singing with the audience invited to join in at instances throughout.
 
 
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with the Joyful Company of Singers

Thursday 20th December 2007
Traditional Christmas songs from all over the world, including the Basque area, Czechoslovakia and France, and festive classical music, mix with some favourite English carols in this robust concert. A packed evening full of familiar tunes contrasted with some unusual additions, you're guaranteed to come out singing.
 
 
Additional Dates:
 

Tuesday 11th December 2007
 
 
Friday 14th and Saturday 15th December 2007
 

Sunday 16th December 2007
 
 
Monday 17th December 2007
 
 
Tuesday 18th December 2007
 

Current events at Cadogan Hall
The Tallis Scholars: Field Of The Cloth Of Gold event Wednesday 16th May
TIMES Wednesday 16th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING £18-£30
Peter Phillips directs works by Mouton including Nesciens Mater and Quaeramus Cum Pastoribus, Cornysh's Ave Maria, Ah Robin and Magnificat, Browne's... More about this event
The City Of London Sinfonia/The Holst Singers event Thursday 24th May
TIMES Thursday 24th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING £10-£35, under 16s £5
Stephen Layton conducts Tchaikovsky's Serenade For Strings and Mozart's Clarinet Concerto and Requiem. With clarinettist Michael Collins, soprano Ka... More about this event
Berlin Symphony Orchestra event Friday 25th May
TIMES Friday 25th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING £18-£39
Mario Venzago conducts the Overture to Weber's Der Freischutz, Schumann's Piano Concerto In A Minor and Beethoven's Symphony No 3 In E Flat 'Eroic... More about this event
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra/Tenebrae event Thursday 17th May
TIMES Thursday 17th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING £12.50-£37.50
Nigel Short conducts Paul Mealor's Now Sleeps The Crimson Petal, Stabat Mater, Ave Maria and Locus Iste, Parry's Songs Of Farewell and Elgar's Sere... More about this event
London Chamber Orchestra event Friday 18th May
TIMES Friday 18th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING £10-£25, under 16s Free
Christopher Warren-Green conducts Vaughan Williams's Fantasia On A Theme By Thomas Tallis, Delius's The Walk To The Paradise Garden and Caprice And ... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Christ Church (Spitalfields Winter Festival)

Christ Church, London, E1 6LY
 
Wednesday 12th - Friday 21st December 2007
 
It's been an annual event for a long time now, but the Spitalfields Winter Festival is still going strong with a host of unique musical events which range from bell-ringing to gospel workshops, lunchtime concerts and carols to Medieval recitals and classical works. This varied programme of innovative music includes a musical and dramatic rendition of the adventures of Sinbad and 'Joglaresa' - an infectious programme of Medieval and traditional tunes guaranteed to get you in the Christmas mood. All concerts take place in and around the beautifully restored Christ Church in the heart of London's vibrant East End.
 
Spitalfields Winter Festival Community Carol Service

Tuesday 18th December 2007
Always one of the highlights of the Spitalfields Festival is the annual Community Carol Service, with pupils from local schools and organisations performing with habitual gusto a lively programme of readings, carols and instrumental recitals. This year youngsters from the Tower Hamlets Saturday Music Centre and Sir John Cass's Foundation School and Centre perform alongside the Sing Gospel Singers.  A heart-warming, community event, the carol concert always attracts large, loyal crowds and plenty of good cheer. All proceeds go towards the Spitalfields Crypt Trust.
 
 
Current events at Christ Church Spitalfields
Nottingham Harmonic Society event Saturday 26th May
TIMES Saturday 26th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING Phone for prices
Richard Laing conducts Rachmaninov's Vespers, Tavener's Hymns To Mother Of God, Song For Athene, Cui's Magnificat and Part's Beatitudes, with orga... More about this event
Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra event Friday 8th June
TIMES Friday 8th June 2012 at 6.30pm and 7.30pm-9.15pm  PRICING £5-£32, child £5-£16, under 27s £5-£24
The orchestra performs works by Bach.... More about this event
The Society Of Royal Cumberland Youths event Friday 8th June
TIMES Friday 8th June 2012 - 8pm  PRICING Free
The group performs Howard Skempton's Five Rings Triples.... More about this event
An Immortal Legacy: Talk event Saturday 9th June
TIMES Saturday 9th June 2012 - 6.30pm  PRICING Free, booking essential
With Harry Christophers.... More about this event
The Sixteen event Saturday 9th June
TIMES Saturday 9th June 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING £5-£32, child £5-£16, under 26s £5-£24
Harry Christophers conducts Byrd's Haec Dies and Laudibus In Sanctis plus works by Tallis, Cornysh, MacMillan, Tippett and Britten.... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Ham House

Ham House, London, TW10 7RS
 
Sunday 9th, Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th December 2007
 
Resting on the banks of the Thames in outlying Richmond, the Great Hall of Ham House's magnificent 17th-century building forms an atmospheric venue for this annual series of carol concerts. The afternoon performances are family-orientated festive fiestas with a visit from Santa and presents for the young ones. The later concerts ('Timeless Carols') are accompanied by more revelry, with mulled wine and mince pies on offer in the remarkable 17th-century orangery during the interval.
 
The Kingston University Choir performs on Sunday 9th December, Mary Mogil and the Leon Singers entertain on Saturday 15th December, while the tones of Musica Divina directed by Simon Desbrulais fill the hall on the 16th. The programme covers a number of orations and showcase pieces, as well as the carols that everyone can join in with.
 
 
Current events at Ham House & Garden
When The Shutters Shut event Friday 18th May
TIMES Friday 18th May 2012 - 7.30pm-9.30pm  PRICING £15
An after-hours tour of the property.... More about this event
Behind The Scenes: Guided Tour event running until Tuesday 29th May 2012
TIMES 15th May, 17th May, 22nd May, 24th May and 29th May 2012 - 2pm-2.45pm  PRICING £8.50, + £9.90, child £5.50, family £25.30
View unseen parts of Ham House.... More about this event
Scenic Ramble event Saturday 2nd June until Sunday 3rd June
TIMES Saturday 2nd June and Sunday 3rd June 2012 - 11am-1pm  PRICING Free + £9.90, child £5.50, family £25.30
Take a leisurely walk from Richmond station to Ham House and Garden with an experienced guide taking in views of the Petersham Meadows along the way.... More about this event
Sword In The Stone Drama Workshop (Ages 5-11) event Sunday 10th June
TIMES Sunday 10th June 2012 - 4pm-4.45pm  PRICING child £3
Learn songs from the show with Cambridge Touring Theatre actors.... More about this event
Book Club event Tuesday 12th June
TIMES Tuesday 12th June 2012 - 11.15am-12.15pm  PRICING Free, plus £9.90, child £5.50, family £25.30
Reading group.... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Osterley Park

Osterley Park, London, TW7 4RB
 
Sundays 2nd, 9th and 16th December 2007
 
The yard of Osterley Park's still-working Tudor stables is packed full of good cheer on Sunday afternoons in December as guests gather together outside for traditional carol services. For an additional charge visitors can step inside the house itself to catch a glimpse of how Osterley would have prepared for Christmas in days gone by.
 
Built in the 16th century, the house was completely revamped by Scottish architect Robert Adam two centuries later. The striking white pillar colonnade that fronts the house is just a taster of the fabulous neoclassical state rooms that exist inside.
 
The house itself is set in 140 acres of gorgeous, verdant parkland complete with ornamental lakes and pleasure grounds. It's the perfect place to take a winter stroll and blow away all the cobwebs. Keep your eyes peeled for the ghost of a mysterious lady dressed in white rumoured to haunt the grounds.
 
 
Current events at Osterley Park and House
Family Discovery Days event Sunday 27th May
TIMES Sunday 27th May 2012 - 1pm-4pm  PRICING Free, plus admission £8.70, child £4.35, family £21.75
... More about this event
Dishing The Dirt: Talk event Wednesday 30th May
TIMES Wednesday 30th May 2012 - 12noon-2pm  PRICING Free, plus admission £8.70, child £4.35, family £21.75
A talk about the damage muck and grime can cause to objects.... More about this event
Craft Cart event Thursday 7th June
TIMES Thursday 7th June 2012 - 1pm-4pm  PRICING £8.70, child £4.35, family £21.75
... More about this event
Osterley Craft Cart event Thursday 7th June
TIMES Thursday 7th June 2012 - 1pm-4pm  PRICING £8.70, child £4.35, family £21.75
A range of free trails and craft activities in the park, house and garden.... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Royal Albert Hall

Kensington Gore, London, SW7 2AP
 
Monday 10th - Monday 24th December 2007
 
One of the capital's most iconic music venues, this 19th-century concert hall is famed for offering a wide variety of entertainments. Its Christmas programme is no exception, with a range of concerts to suit most tastes from the King's College Choir to a raucous, audience-led singalong. Here are a few highlights followed by some more dates... 
 
White Christmas 2007

Royal Albert Hall, London, SW7 2AP
Saturday 15th December 2007
White Christmas offers up a familiar set of seasonal songs from 'Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire' to 'A Winter Wonderland' and 'Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas'... A proper selection of old-time favourites, this'll have you swaying and singing in your seat before the first song has finished. Led by the London Concert Orchestra and the Capital Voices Choir and conducted by John Rigby, West End stars Jacinta Whyte and Gary Williams take on a range of solo performances. Another jolly, populist hit in the Royal Albert Hall's Christmas line-up.
 
 
Christmas Carol Sing-Along 2007

Royal Albert Hall, London, SW7 2AP
Sunday 16th, Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd December 2007
Get involved and help raise the roof at this annual audience participation festive extravaganza. Every year an ebullient crowd is encouraged to join in and give their lungs a good workout as they belt their way through a stack of traditional, Christmas tunes. Accompanied by the London Concert Chorus and Orchestra and hosted by musical genius and 'Playschool' and 'Playaway' king, Jonathan Cohen, this is an informal, lighthearted event, which is traditionally full of atmosphere. This is always a staunchly populist "greatest hits" set, taking in anything from religious staples like 'O Come All Ye Faithful', to 'Rocking Around the Christmas Tree' and Bing Crosby's 'White Christmas'. Tickets for this London favourite are likely to sell out fast.
 
 
Messiah 2007

Royal Albert Hall, London, SW7 2AP
Sunday 16th December 2007
It's not really Christmas in London without a performance of Handel's 'Messiah' and the Royal Albert Hall is always pleased to oblige. This year the choral masterpiece is performed by 500 voices from three top choirs, along with soloists and the superb Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Royal Albert Hall is a spectacular venue, a cathedral to the power of music, with one of the country's finest organs, and it is the perfect place for Handel's soaring redemptive hymn.
 
Performers: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra | Goldsmiths Choral Union | Highgate Choral Society | English Concert Chorus | Maria Plazas - Soprano | Jean Rigby - Mezzo | Timothy Robinson - Tenor | Henry Waddington - Bass | Brian Wright - Conductor
 
 
Royal Choral Society Christmas Carols

Royal Albert Hall, London, SW7 2AP
Monday 17th December 2007
The Royal Choral Society brings a selection of traditional carols to the Royal Albert Hall this year. The programme includes, 'Once in Royal David's City', 'O Little Town of Bethlehem', 'Away in a Manger', 'The First Noel', 'God Rest You Merry Gentlemen', 'O Come, All Ye Faithful', and 'Hark! the Herald Angels Sing'. Conducted and introduced by Richard Cooke with John Birch (organ), the Fanfare Trumpeters of the Band of the Grenadier Guards and the London Concert Orchestra.
 
 
King's College Choir

Royal Albert Hall, London, SW7 2AP
Friday 21st December 2007
The world-famous choir of King's College Chapel presents what should be one of the best of this year's carols and classical music concerts. These concerts combine musical excellence and professionalism with a great deal of fun - the element of audience participation has a wonderful effect on the audience's appreciation of the music. From Vivaldi's 'Gloria' and Tchaikovsky's 'Waltz of the Flowers' to Rutter's 'Twelve Days of Christmas' and a special 150th anniversary tribute to Elgar, this year's programme promises something for all. Stephen Cleobury conducts the Philarmonia Orchestra and Chorus with Sarah-Jane Davies (soprano) and Laura Parfitt (alto).
 
 
Additional Dates:
 

Monday 10th December 2007
 
 
Friday 14th December 2007
 
 
Saturday 15th December 2007
 
 
Tuesday 18th December 2007
 
 
Wednesday 19th December 2007
 
 
Thursday 20th December 2007
 
 
Thursday 20th December 2007
 
 
Saturday 22nd December - Monday 24th (Christmas Eve) 2007
 

Current events at Royal Albert Hall
Swan Lake on Ice event Friday 18th May until Sunday 20th May
TIMES Fri 7.30pm | Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm | Sun 2pm & 6pm  PRICING £17.50 - £60
The dark and romantic 1895 Tchaikovsky ballet will be revived in London this May as Imperial Ice Stars take their interpretation to the More about this event
Elvis Costello event Wednesday 23rd May until Thursday 24th May
TIMES 8pm  PRICING £28.50 - £45
Legendary singer-songwriter  More about this event
A Gala for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee event Saturday 2nd June
TIMES 3pm and 7.30pm  PRICING £20-£75
Celebrate 60 years of Queen Elizabeth II with an evening ... More about this event
Conrad Tao event Wednesday 16th May
TIMES Wednesday 16th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING £15
The pianist performs Beethoven's Sonata No 31 In A Flat Major, Conrad Tao's Three Songs, Rachmaninov's Prelude In G Sharp Minor, Prelude In C Minor... More about this event
James Rhodes event Thursday 17th May
TIMES Thursday 17th May 2012 - 8pm  PRICING £17.50
The pianist performs Bach's French Suite No 5 In G Major, Schubert's Sonata In A Major and Chopin's Scherzo No 2 In B Flat Minor.... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Southbank Centre: Carols with Voicelab

Belvedere Road, London, SE1 8XX
 
Friday 14th December 2007
 
One of a number of festive events taking in and around the Southbank Centre in December, this robust carol singalong promises to be an energetic raucous evening. With a set that can be described as "traditional with a twist", expect some old favourites mixed up with some unexpected additions. Decorated in suitably festive fashion by set designer and associate artist, Michael Vale, the Ballroom forms the venue for this fun, free, seasonal sing-song. Songsheets provided.
 
 
Southbank Centre - Information
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Southwark Cathedral

London Bridge, London, SE1 9DA
 
Thursday 13th - Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
Dating back to the 13th century Southwark Cathedral is the oldest Gothic church in the city and boasts a colourful history (look out for the monuments to Edmund Shakespeare - the Bard's brother - and playwright John Fletcher) which goes towards forming a fine setting for a series of atmospheric annual services and concerts. There are various carol concerts (almost every other day) and seasonal services on throughout the month but here are some highlights and a couple of notable dates for your diary...
 
Celebrate Christmas with Goldsmiths Choral Union

Thursday 20th December 2007
Regular performers at some of London's most high-profile classical music venues, the Goldsmiths Choral Union choir entertain with a mix of seasonal songs and readings at this family carol concert. Held in the auspicious surroundings of Southwark Cathedral the venue promises to match the standard of the singing. Audience members are encouraged to join in with this festive programme, conducted by Brian Wright.
 
 
Midnight Mass

Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
The mother church for the Anglican Diocese of Southwark, the cathedral attracts a huge crowd each year for its Midnight Mass despite the parish being comparatively small in terms of residents. Make sure you arrive early, approach the cathedral via a walk along the river if you have time, and enjoy the build-up to this joyous celebration.
 
 
Additional Dates:
 
Time: 19:00
Phone: 020 7599 7777
 

Saturday 15th December 2007
 

Monday 18th December 2007
 

Thursday 21st December 2007
 
 
Sunday 23rd December 2007
 

Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 

Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 

Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
Current events at Southwark Cathedral
Martin Ford event Monday 21st May
TIMES Monday 21st May 2012 - 1pm  PRICING phone for prices
The organist performs various works.... More about this event
Charles Ross And Maureen Parry event Tuesday 22nd May
TIMES Tuesday 22nd May 2012 - 3.15pm  PRICING phone for prices
Piano recital.... More about this event
Ullern Chamber Choir event Friday 25th May
TIMES Friday 25th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING phone for prices
The choir performs works by Norwegian composers including Greig.... More about this event
David Pipe event Monday 28th May
TIMES Monday 28th May 2012 - 1pm  PRICING phone for prices
The organist performs various works.... More about this event
Sophie Warwick And Sebastian Wybrew event Tuesday 29th May
TIMES Tuesday 29th May 2012 - 3.15pm  PRICING phone for prices
The piano duo performs various works.... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

St George's Cathedral

Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7HY
 
Wednesday 12th - Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
This friendly venue in south London has an atmosphere that is traditionally jovial with a real sense of celebration during many of its services - something which really comes to the forefront at Christmas. In the heart of multicultural London, St George's has a diverse, multicultural congregation and a special Christmas Day service in Spanish. See below for a couple of their major events and a list of seasonal services...
 
A Celebration for Advent

Sunday 16th December 2007
Renowned for its fine choral tradition St George's resident choir is often used for television and radio broadcasts. Displaying their talents via a range of carols and seasonal songs during this special Advent service, audience members are invited to join in with the celebration.
 
 
Midnight Mass, Christmas Carols and Readings

Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
The hub of south London's  cosmopolitan, Roman Catholic community puts on one of London's most renowned Midnight Masses every year. The atmosphere here is traditionally jovial and there's a real sense of celebration and old fashioned cheer as carols echo up into the vaults. Renowned for its fine choral tradition the celebrations here were broadcast on the BBC in 2004 popularising this inspiring service and attracting thousands every year to welcome in Christmas Day with song and prayer.
 
 
Additional Dates:
 

Wednesday 12th December 2007
 
 
Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 
 
Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 
 
Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
 
Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
 
Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
 
Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 

St George's - Information
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

St Martin-in-the-Fields

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 4JJ
 
Sunday 2nd - Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
Situated right in the middle of the city you might imagine St Martin-in-the-Fields to be a somewhat impersonal venue, but actually with its "ever-open" door the parish has a surprisingly welcoming, community feel about it and no more so than at Christmas. In centuries past the congregation has enjoyed concerts from talents like Handel and Mozart. This December there are a range of new talents on show. Here are some musical highlights and special seasonal services...
 
Christmas Four Seasons with Audience Carols

Saturday 8th December 2007
Over the course of an early December eve, the London Musical Arts Ensemble weave a glorious blend of Vivaldi's masterpiece with Corelli's Christmas Concerto, Pachelbel's Canon and Gigue and some traditional Christmas carols. The Ensemble has been stalwarts at St Martin's since 1992 and, with conductor John Landor still at the helm, this concert promises to be a combination of sing-a-long fun and fleet, fresh finesse.
 
 
Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

Wednesday 19th December 2007
Relive the story of the Nativity with the help of readings, carols and choral music. A family service, this is bound to be a popular event, and deservedly so for the choir here are excellent and the location and setting next to none. Pop over to the Christmas tree in Trafalgar Square afterwards for some more festive cheer.
 
 
Additional Dates:


Sunday 2nd December 2007
 


Sunday 9th December 2007
 
 
Tuesday 11th December 2007
 


Sunday 23rd December 2007
 


Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 

Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 


Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 

Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 

St Martin-in-the-Fields - Information
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

St Paul's Cathedral

St Paul's Churchyard, EC4M 8AD
 
Saturday 8th - Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
Built by Sir Christopher Wren after the fire, St Paul's is viewed by many as the spiritual home of Great Britain. It's also a very popular place to experience the more traditional side of Christmas. This year, to meet demand, St Paul's is hosting a series of concerts throughout the month of December peaking with the excessively popular Midnight Mass service and carol concert. The cathedral's great dome which dominates much of the City fills with the sound of the Cathedral Choir for a large part of the month and most special services and concerts are free and available to all. See below for some highlight events and a list of dates for your diary...
 
Messiah

Wednesday 12th December 2007
Synonymous with Christmas, Handel's 'Messiah', performed by the Cathedral Choir and Chorus and the City of London Sinfonia in the imposing St Paul's Cathedral, has to be one of the highlights of the season. It's free to attend but you need to apply for tickets by writing to: Messiah Tickets, The Chapter House, London, EC4M 8AD. As you can imagine this is an unbelievably popular event so if you want to attend get your letter posted (with a SAE) as soon as you can.  
 
 
A Celebration of Christmas

Wednesday 19th December 2007
Celebrity readers perform alongside the St Paul's Cathedral Choir and the City of London Sinfonia in this traditional concert of carols and narrated excerpts. It's free and everyone's welcome but space is limited so get there as early as you can to secure a seat in this formidable venue.
 
 
Family Carols (Christingle)

Saturday 22nd December 2007
A short-ish service to suit families, this is a traditional, friendly, pre-Christmas Day celebration with carols performed by the Cantate Youth Choir. Kids are positively encouraged to attend this special service during which Christingles (oranges wrapped in red ribbon and skewered with a lit candle and four cocktail sticks laden with sweets and fruit) are given out. Symbolising the world, the light of Jesus, the love of Christ and the four seasons, Christingles are rarely seen in seasonal services so this one in St Paul's offers a unique chance for families to explore another custom associated with this festive season.
 
 
Additional Dates:
 

Saturday 8th December 2007
 
 
Friday 14th December 2007
La Nativite du Seigneur by Oliver Messiaen (recital)
Sunday 16th December 2007
 
 
Sunday 23rd December and Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 
 
Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 
 
Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 

Current events at St Paul's Cathedral
The Queen's Diamond Jubilee: Service of Thanksgiving and Carriage Procession event Tuesday 5th June
On Tuesday 5th June 2012 The Queen and other members of the Royal Family will attend a Service of Thanksgiving More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

St Paul's Church

Bedford Street, WC2E 9ED
 
Saturday 1st - Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
An attractive, Inigo Jones-designed church (c.1633) positioned right opposite Covent Garden's market and piazza, St Paul's forms a suitably atmospheric setting for a series of festive concerts and services this Christmas. Included below are a couple of highlights followed by some additional dates for your diary...
 
Concordia Foundation Candlelit Christmas Concert

Saturday 1st December 2007
A good smattering of traditional carols combined with familiar classical pieces capture the essence of Christmas over the ages in this family-oriented Christmas concert. Introduced by international soprano Gillian Humphrys and starring a number of accomplished young musicians and a mystery celebrity guest speaker, the accessible programme combines works from Purcell to Puccini, Handel to Saint Saens. All proceeds go to the Concordia Foundation.
 
 
A Star for Christmas

Wednesday 5th December 2007
Most familiarly referred to as 'The Actors' Church', Covent Garden's St Paul's is the ideal venue for this celebrity-filled, Christmas carol concert in aid of Help the Aged. Performing a range of seasonally-inspired solo songs, readings and group arrangements, a bevy of old-school thesps - from Lionel Blair to Liz Smith - do their bit for charity supported by the RADA Choir. This should be a fun evening, finished off with drinks and nibbles and the chance for a bit of schmoozing. Tickets are bound to sell fast so we recommend you book early.
 
 
Traditional Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight

Sunday 16th December 2007
With a cast of professional actors performing readings from the King James Bible alongside costumed musicians this colourful, dramatised service should prove popular with families, locals and tourists alike. If you're planning on attending make sure you arrive early to get a space.
 
 
Additional Dates:
 

Thursday 29th November 2007
 
 
Monday 3rd December 2007
 
 
Saturday 8th December 2007
 
 
Sunday 9th December 2007
 
 
Friday 14th December 2007
 
 
Saturday 15th December 2007
 
 
Monday 17th December 2007
 
 
Tuesday 18th December 2007
 
 
Thursday 20th December 2007
 
 
Sunday 23rd December 2007
 
 
Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 
 
Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 

Current events at St Paul's Covent Garden
Marcus Friedrich event Friday 18th May
TIMES Friday 18th May 2012 - 5pm  PRICING phone for prices
The Philharmonic Youth Choir leader performs various works.... More about this event
Nicholas Robinson event Sunday 20th May
TIMES Sunday 20th May 2012  PRICING phone for prices
Organ recital.... More about this event
Julia Williams, Julia Arlen, Tony Rowden And Clive Pollard event Thursday 24th May
TIMES Thursday 24th May 2012 - 1pm  PRICING phone for prices
Organ concert.... More about this event
The City Of London Symphonic Winds event Sunday 27th May
TIMES Sunday 27th May 2012 - 4pm  PRICING phone for prices
The group performs Ellerby's New World Dances, Grainger's Molly On The Shore, Bennett's Reflections On A 16th Century Tune, Holst's First Suite In... More about this event
Ana Serrano-Ikkos event Saturday 2nd June
TIMES Saturday 2nd June 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING phone for prices
A classical recital by the pianist.... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Sutton House

Sutton House, London, E9 6JQ
 
Saturday 15th December 2007
 
East London's oldest private house presents a pair of carol concerts on the middle Saturday of December; one an evening concert, the other a cheerful, family sing-song affair. After the evening concert in the house's glorious Wenlock Barn, guests are invited to take a look around the rest of this marvellously preserved, 16th-century building. 
 
Sutton House was built in 1535 for Sir Rafe Sadleir, Principal Secretary of State for Henry VII, and has seen many alterations throughout its near half-millennium history. Inside, the original oak panelling, painted staircase, carved fireplaces and Jacobean paintings are a feast for the eyes, not to mention the mural left by squatters during the 1980s.
 
Sing away and then experience some of London's rich past, warm your hands around a piping glass of mulled wine and usher in the festive spirit.
 
 
Current events at Sutton House
Book Brunchers event running until Saturday 20th October 2012
TIMES Saturday 20th October 2012 - 11am-12noon  PRICING £3, child £1, family £6.90
... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DS
 
Monday 10th - Sunday 23rd December 2007 (*there are no carols on Tuesday 11th December)
 
For over half a century Trafalgar Square has been adorned with a majestic Christmas tree - an annual gift from the people of Oslo, thanking Britain for support and friendship during World War Two. The evergreen - perhaps the most famous in the world - is an integral part of Christmas in London and is always a prime specimen, towering high alongside Nelson and decorated only with authentic white lights. Singing groups and passers-by join around the tree every evening to sing carols and soak up the Christmas cheer. On some evenings the angelic voices of the St Martin-in-the-Fields choir lead the tune. This is a wonderful spot to capture the spirit of Christmas.
 
 
Current events at Trafalgar Square
Elmgreen & Dragset: Powerless Structures, Fig 101 event running until Friday 12th April 2013
TIMES open-access  PRICING Free
Michael Elmgreen and Ingar Dragset, an artist duo based in Berlin and London, have brought a bronze sculpture of a child on a rocking horse to More about this event
The Royal Opera: La Boheme: Live Satellite Transmission event running until Thursday 17th May 2012
TIMES Thursday 17th May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING Free
... More about this event
The Royal Opera: Falstaff: Live Satellite Transmission event Friday 25th May until Thursday 31st May
TIMES Wednesday 30th May 2012 - 7.30pm
... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Westminster Abbey

Parliament Square, SW1P 3PA
 
Sunday 2nd - Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 
Stunning Gothic architecture, the artistic talent that went into the statues, murals, paintings and tombs, and the fantastic stained glass, combine to make Westminster Abbey the most enduringly stunning of London’s churches and a treasure trove of royal history. An absolutely dazzling setting for Christmas worship and concerts, all are welcome to attend events and services at this iconic venue. Just make sure you either book your ticket or grab your seat as early as possible as they are VERY popular. Here are a couple of this year's highlights followed by a list of their special seasonal services...
 
Classic FM Music Makers Charity Christmas Concert

Thursday 13th December 2007
The setting of every coronation since 1066, Westminster Abbey doubles up as a fabulous venue for their annual Christmas charity concert. Conducted by James O'Donnell, the huge vaults of this stunning Gothic venue play host this year to the crystal clear sounds of The Choir of Westminster Abbey and organist Robert Quinney for a traditional programme of carols and seasonally-themed readings. One of the highlights of the evening, guest soloist, Welsh Baroque soprano Elin Manahan-Thomas, performs Handel's 'Rejoice Greatly' from 'Messiah', while Classic FM presenters Simon Bates, Jane Jones and Jamie Crick lead the readings.
 
 
Midnight Mass at Westminster Abbey

Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
Pack inside one of London's most famous landmarks for an old-fashioned service to take you right through to Christmas Day. Westminster Abbey has been at the centre of royal and religious life in Britain since the time of William the Conqueror who was crowned here on Christmas Day 1066, following the successful Norman invasion of the British Isles. It's easy to lose sight of what Christmas is all about in the sea of commercialisation, but perched in the majestic history of the Abbey's nave will help remind you of the religious message. These awe-inspiring surroundings provide a striking backdrop for an evening of lessons and carols.
 
 
Special Seasonal Services:
 

Sunday 2nd December 2007
 

Sunday 23rd December 2007
 

Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 

Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 

Current events at Westminster Abbey
The Choir Of Westminster Abbey/St James's Baroque event Thursday 24th May
TIMES Thursday 24th May 2012 - 7pm  PRICING £10-£40
James O'Donnell conducts Bach's Motet 'Singet Dem Herrn Ein Neues Lied' and Handel's Motet 'Silete Veni' and Ode For Saint Cecilia's Day. With... More about this event
 
 
A London Christmas 2007: Carols & Services
 

Westminster Cathedral: A Christmas Celebration

42 Francis Street, SW1P 1QW
 
Thursday 20th December 2007
 
With plain walls and simple candlelight juxtaposed against colourful mosaics and marbles, London's striking neo-Byzantine Roman Catholic cathedral provides an atmospheric backdrop for this festive musical celebration. Westminster Cathedral boasts one of the best young choirs in the capital (if not the country). Their performance at this annual event combined with impressive arrangements and the venue's excellent acoustics breathe new life to those old classics and make this one of the most popular Christmas concerts in the festive calendar.
 
Additional Dates:
 

Monday 24th December (Christmas Eve) 2007
 


Tuesday 25th December (Christmas Day) 2007
 

Current events at Westminster Cathedral
Martin Baker event Wednesday 23rd May
TIMES Wednesday 23rd May 2012 - 7.30pm  PRICING Free, donation welcome
The organist performs various works.... More about this event
 
 
 
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